Northern Kentucky University

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in marketing — including consumer behaviour, marketing research, marketing strategy and digital marketing — then applies those principles to the fashion sector with international and retail-facing perspectives. Typical modules and topics include:

• Core marketing: Principles of Marketing, Marketing Research, Brand Management, Advertising and Promotion, Digital and Social Media Marketing.
• Fashion-focused subjects: Fashion Merchandising and Buying, Retail Management, Visual Merchandising, Fashion Promotion and Public Relations.
• International and supply-chain topics: International Marketing, Global Sourcing and Supply Chain Management, Import/export practices, Cross-cultural consumer insights.
• Industry skills: Trend Forecasting, Product Development and Line Planning, Pricing Strategies for Fashion, E-commerce and Omnichannel Retailing.
• Applied work: Capstone or senior project linking marketing strategy to a fashion business problem, practicum or internship experiences with retailers, brands or suppliers, and opportunities for study abroad or exchange to gain international market exposure.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification (for example a high school diploma or equivalent). Typical preparation includes strong English communication skills and a grounding in mathematics or quantitative reasoning. Where relevant, admission decisions will consider overall academic record, any relevant work or extracurricular experience, and a personal statement that explains interest in marketing and the fashion industry.

Transfer students will normally need to present college-level transcripts demonstrating readiness for upper-level business coursework. International applicants should meet the university's English language proficiency requirements. Check with Northern Kentucky University's admissions office for programme-specific prerequisites and guidance on documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that bridge marketing and fashion across domestic and international markets. Common career paths include:

• Fashion buyer or merchandise planner for retailers and department stores
• Brand or product manager within fashion companies and lifestyle brands
• E-commerce and digital marketing specialist for online fashion platforms
• Retail operations or store management roles with regional and international retailers
• Sourcing/co‑ordination and supply‑chain roles with apparel manufacturers and importers
• Visual merchandising, fashion marketing consultancy, and roles in trend forecasting and product development

The programme’s practical components — internships, capstone projects and industry partnerships — are designed to build a portfolio of work and professional contacts that help graduates enter the competitive fashion and retail sectors. Alumni also move into graduate study in business, marketing or fashion-focused masters programmes.

Why study at Northern Kentucky University

Northern Kentucky University provides a business-centred environment through the Haile/US Bank College of Business, combining small-class teaching with opportunities for experiential learning. The university’s location near Cincinnati gives students access to a regional retail and design scene, enabling internships and employer partnerships with midwestern brands, retailers and logistics providers.

Students benefit from career services, industry guest speakers, and practical coursework that emphasises real-world problem solving. The programme supports study abroad and exchange options to gain international market experience, and offers mentorship and networking opportunities to help translate classroom learning into industry roles.